CHEF-DRIVEN AMERICAN RESTAURANT AND EVENT VENUE SET TO OPEN IN PLAIN CITY
PLAIN CITY, OH — A New Era of Dining Arrives in Plain City
The Clocktower Kitchen + Bar, a chef-driven American restaurant rooted in local flavor and genuine hospitality, is set to open in historic downtown Plain City this summer. Located at 101 S. Chillicothe Street, The Clocktower reimagines classic American cuisine with seasonal ingredients sourced from Ohio’s local farms.
Founded by seasoned hospitality professionals Benjamyn Greig, Shane Whitacre and Chelsea Whitacre - The Clocktower Kitchen + Bar blends timeless Midwestern flavors with modern culinary techniques, highlighting fresh, locally sourced ingredients and warm, personalized service. With decades of combined experience in hospitality, marketing and operations, the leadership team brings a guest-first approach to every detail. Benjamyn Greig previously served as Director of Operations at High Bank Distillery Co., where he helped lead the award-winning Columbus-based brand through multiple expansions. Shane and Chelsea Whitacre, co-owners of Chef’s Table Columbus, bring years of front-line hospitality experience and a keen eye for curated culinary experience.
The restaurant features a thoughtfully curated beverage program, a stylish yet comfortable dining space, and a full-service private event venue upstairs for weddings, corporate functions, and curated culinary experiences.
“We couldn’t be more excited to welcome Ben, Shane and Chelsea to Plain City,” shared Andy Warnock, co-owner of the Clock Tower building. Warnock, alongside business partner and longtime Plain City resident Rayce Robinson, have led the restoration of the 10,280-square-foot structure since acquiring it in early 2023. “We truly believe everything happens for a reason. The rollercoaster journey to this point paved the way for local, seasoned restaurant professionals to fall in love with our vision. The Clocktower team is the perfect fit.”
Adding to the building’s dynamic food and beverage offerings, Chef’s Table will operate the upstairs event venue—bringing their signature elevated dining experiences and chef-curated gatherings to Plain City. Known for intimate wine dinners, weddings and private culinary collaborations across central Ohio, Chef’s Table will bring a new level of sophistication to weddings, corporate functions, and seasonal tasting events hosted in the 3,800-square-foot second-floor venue.
“Partnering with the Westwood Collective team allows us to expand our mission of celebrating food, connection, and creativity in a truly unique space,” said The Clocktower team. “We’re thrilled to bring our collaborative events and curated culinary experiences to such a beautiful, historic venue.”
Warnock and Robinson’s partnership, through Westwood Collective, has transformed the building into a multi-use destination that includes a coffee shop (New Grounds Coffee House, opening summer 2025), retail storefront, second-floor event space and The Clocktower Restaurant and Bar.
Steeped in history, the Clock Tower building once served as Howland Hardware until 1944. The renovation honors its legacy—retaining original hardwood floors and integrating preserved casework from the former “nuts and bolts” section as the backdrop for the restaurant's bar. The main dining room and kitchen span over 4,200 square feet, while the second-floor event space adds another 3,800 square feet, complete with private restrooms, a bar, and prep kitchen.
“This is arguably the most historically relevant building in our town,” said Robinson. “We are sparing no expense and wasting no moment of thought so we can bring to life the history and charm of the Clock Tower—and preserve its future.”
Construction is nearing completion, with final mechanicals installed, restored floors by Plain City’s Gingerich Hardwood, and the outdoor biergarten framed and ready to host guests beneath string lights.
“We set out to create a space where people can celebrate life’s moments—big or small—through exceptional food and heartfelt service,” said Greig. “We want guests to feel at home, whether they’re joining us for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion.”
The Clocktower Kitchen + Bar is set to open in Summer 2025.
Learn more and stay up to date at www.theclocktowerkitchenandbar.com.
About The Clocktower
Located in the heart of Plain City, The Clocktower is a chef-driven American restaurant focused on local sourcing, community connection, and exceptional hospitality. With a modern approach to classic dishes and a passion for community.The restaurant offers full-service dining, a curated beverage program, and an upstairs event venue. For more information, visit theclocktowerkitchenandbar.com
